Giving Compass' Take:

• Avoid common grantmaking missteps by reading this list and creating a cohesive grantmaking strategy that will serve you and your community. 

• How can grantmakers better share information and support each other? What are effective methods for avoiding these problems? 

• Read these humorous but important honest answers on grant proposals.

Being Unadaptable: In our constantly changing philanthropic landscape, it is important to create processes and routines that are easily modified. By continually evaluating and adjusting your routines, you will ensure more efficient and streamlined processes for your organization.

Lack of Strategy: Having a plan in place makes it easier for your staff and stakeholders,  and also ensures things are done correctly and keeps everyone on board. Having direction and purpose gives everyone the confidence needed to be successful in their jobs and will boost your grantmaking abilities.

Being Greedy: Grantees have enough on their plates. By requesting only necessary information, you are not only decreasing the burden for grantees, but for yourself as well. Start by envisioning how the information will be used and remember that less is more. By being strategic with your questions, you will be able to identify qualified grantees more efficiently.

Power Imbalanced: There is an unspoken power imbalance in the philanthropic industry, usually felt among grantees and one which can be a pitfall for grantmakers. Just because you may feel like you have the upper hand with grantees, don’t let it go to your head.

Read the full article about grantmaking pitfalls at PEAK Grantmaking.